It’s mid-September and classroom observations are starting.
Learning List resources can assist you in preparing for classroom observations and coaching conversations. Below are sample questions related to each T-TESS dimension that addresses “alignment” of lessons and activities to the state standards and using materials to assess student progress. These questions may be useful in conversations prior to observations or edited and used during coaching conversations after observations.
Please note, the short descriptions of the dimensions below does not capture the full scope of the rubric’s expectations. Consult the rubric for further detail.
Planning Dimension 1.1: The teacher designs clear, well organized, sequential lessons that reflect best practice, align with standards and are appropriate for diverse learners.
Sample Coaching Questions
- Which instructional material(s) supports the objectives for this lesson?
- What criteria do you use to determine whether an instructional material is aligned to the standards being taught in the lesson?
- How do you determine the sequence of instructional materials to use?
- Will you use technology in the lesson? If so, how will you determine the most appropriate technology to use?
- How are you using instructional materials to help you differentiate instruction?
Planning Dimension 1.2: The teacher uses formal and informal methods to measure student progress, then manages and analyzes student data to inform instruction.
Sample Coaching Questions
- What type of instruments will you use to assess student progress?
- How will you use the data you get back from those formative assessments to guide small group instruction?
- How do you involve students in monitoring their progress?
- What resources are available for instructing students of varying needs? What criteria do you use to determine which to use?
- What type of feedback do you find most effective with the students you teach?
Planning Dimension 1.4: The teacher plans engaging, flexible lessons that engage higher-order thinking, persistence and achievement.
Sample Coaching Questions
- What questions have you planned for the lesson?
- Which questioning and/or other strategies will you use to encourage all students to engage in higher-order thinking?
- How will you use your instructional materials to prompt students to engage in higher order thinking and questioning?
- How will you assess the alignment of your activities with instructional materials?
Instruction Dimension 2.2: The teacher uses content and pedagogical expertise to design and execute lessons aligned with state standards, related content and student needs.
Sample Coaching Questions
- Can you demonstrate that this lesson is aligned to the state standards you are intending to cover?
- How does this lesson align to the district curriculum (scope and sequence)?
- How will you use your instructional materials to provide students with opportunities to use different types of thinking and problem solving skills? What real world scenarios will you reference to support student learning?
We encourage principals to leverage the reviews and tools on Learning List to help implement the T-TESS rubric during the observation and coaching cycle. Contact us if you would like to schedule training to help support this important work.